We tapped award-winning burger chef Ernesto Uchimura for a few tips. Chef Uchimura is the creator of “The Ernesto” burger, which travelers can enjoy on board several Princess Cruise ships at the Salty Dog Gastropub, and the creator of LA Weekly’s “Best Burger.”

What’s the number one thing everyone is doing wrong when making burgers at home? One thing I notice is that most people don’t use freshly ground meat. They don’t know that their local butcher can grind it fresh for you right there while you wait.

2. Season the meat evenly all over with salt and pepper so that every bite has flavor.

3. Pre-heat your grill for a while so it’s nice and hot when the burgers go on to ensure you get a good sear on your burger.

4. The ratio of ingredients is another key to a great burger. Think complementary, not dominating flavors — no one likes an oversized bun, a pile of raw onions or skimpy amount of cheese!

What are the newest burger trends you’re loving right now? I am noticing a trend toward unique patties. It’s not all beef anymore; there are burgers made from any animal, plant or grain in our diet.

What burger trends need to just die already? The over-the-top, add-another-topping trend needs to go. I’m talking about a burger with 10 things on it, so high it needs to be secured with a tall skewer just so it won’t topple over.

What’s an easy brunch burger that anyone can whip up at home to impress their guests? Simply take the ingredients for eggs Benedict — poached egg, ham and hollandaise sauce — put it on top of a burger patty and use an English muffin as the bun.

Do you have tips and tricks for creating the perfect burger?Tweet us your ideas @BritandCo!

With an MFA in Costume Design and a website dedicated to sous vide cooking, Sarah's been in the DIY space since long before it was cool. She was the Food + Living editor for Instructables.com where she produced three books including How to Do Absolutely Everything, and the Think Tank director at Betabrand where she designed the bestselling Dress Pant Yoga Pants. Sarah also worked as a make-up artist for Blue Man Group and has built costumes for film, theater and dance.